For some reason, and only in recent years, there has been a massive shift from using bar soap as hand wash to liquid soap in plastic containers with a pump. These are not necessarily any more efficient or useful, and if anything tend to need more frequent replacing. These plastic containers are usually made from several different types of plastic, as the pump requires many different components. This means that even if you do try and recycle them, it is not always possible. Your safest bet is to make a complete switch from liquid soap back to bar soap! It is often cheaper, lasts longer, and it is much easier to buy natural soaps that aren't packed full of unknown, questionable chemicals. Consider this for your shower gel and shaving routine too.

Try the soap stall in Cambridge market square to support a local business! Don't forget to go for soap that comes in paper, recyclable packaging. Lush also provides a huge variety of soaps and smells, and make a huge effort to package sustainably.

If you've heard down the grapevine that bar soap actually harbours bacteria instead of removing it, have a read of this article (it's well sourced!) to hopefully dispel any myths. TLDR: bar soap does not harbour or transfer harmful bacteria, but it is recommended that soap bars are kept in a ridged soap dish so that they dry out between uses. https://tonic.vice.com/en_us/article/yw4bvb/is-there-any-reason-to-use-liquid-soap-instead-of-bar-soap

In addition to using bar soap, consider the amount of plastic waste your shampoo, conditioner and shower/shaving gel creates. Try swapping to bar forms of these too! They often contain only natural ingredients which is often better for your hair, and many people find themselves using less/no conditioner with shampoo bars. These are ideal for travelling, as they will never be over your liquid allowance, and they can be easily stored in a metal tin, which most people are bound to have lying around the house!

While they can often seem more expensive, shampoo bars are proven to last longer than bottles. The conditioner bars tend to last even longer, with many people saying over a year! Many people also report needing to wash their hair a lot less, as the lack of harsh chemicals allow the hair's natural oils to work their magic. This often needs a slight adjustment period, but the results and cost-saving is worth it! Most retailers will give details of these factors on their websites! I particularly like anythingbutplastic.co.uk 's range, as she breaks down the details and pros/cons of the products.

Some extra tips if you find your hair is adjusting slowly to your bars:

https://www.chagrinvalleysoapandsalve.com/blog/posts/tips-adjusting-to-shampoo-bars/